Chicago Outfit

Chicago Outfit

Founded	1910s
Founding location	Chicago, Illinois, United States
Years active	1910s–present
Territory	Chicago metropolitan area, various other areas in the Midwest
Criminal activities	Racketeering, murder, extortion, bribery, money laundering, loan sharking, gambling, prostitution, political corruption
Allies	Various Italian-American Mafia families
Rivals	Various criminal organizations

The Chicago Outfit, also known as the Outfit, Chicago Mafia, or Chicago Mob, is an Italian-American organized crime syndicate based in Chicago, Illinois. It is part of the larger American Mafia network and has a long history of criminal activities, including racketeering, murder, extortion, and money laundering.

History

The Chicago Outfit was established in the early 1910s, during the Prohibition era, when the illegal production and distribution of alcohol became a lucrative business. The Outfit was originally part of the South Side Gang, which was led by Johnny Torrio. Torrio's protege, Al Capone, eventually took over the organization and expanded its operations.

Prohibition Era

During Prohibition, the Outfit became one of the most powerful criminal organizations in the United States. Under Capone's leadership, the Outfit controlled the illegal alcohol trade in Chicago and was involved in numerous violent confrontations with rival gangs, such as the North Side Gang. The infamous St. Valentine's Day Massacre in 1929, where seven members of the North Side Gang were murdered, is one of the most notorious events associated with the Outfit.

Post-Prohibition

After the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the Outfit diversified its operations into other areas, such as gambling, prostitution, and loan sharking. The organization also infiltrated labor unions and engaged in political corruption to protect its interests.

Modern Era

In the latter half of the 20th century, the Outfit continued to be a dominant force in organized crime, although it faced increased pressure from law enforcement. High-profile trials and convictions of key members, such as Tony Accardo and Sam Giancana, weakened the organization but did not dismantle it entirely.

Structure

The Chicago Outfit is structured similarly to other Mafia families, with a hierarchical organization that includes a boss, underboss, and various capos and soldiers. Unlike other Mafia families, the Outfit does not have a formal "family" name and is known simply as "The Outfit."

Criminal Activities

The Outfit has been involved in a wide range of criminal activities, including:

• Racketeering: Extortion and protection rackets have been a staple of the Outfit's operations.
• Gambling: The Outfit has controlled illegal gambling operations, including bookmaking and casino games.
• Loan Sharking: Providing high-interest loans to individuals unable to obtain credit through legitimate means.
• Prostitution: The Outfit has been involved in the management and control of prostitution rings.
• Political Corruption: Bribing public officials to influence legislation and law enforcement actions.

Notable Members

• Al Capone: One of the most famous gangsters in American history, Capone led the Outfit during the height of its power in the 1920s.
• Tony Accardo: Known as "Joe Batters," Accardo was a long-time leader of the Outfit and helped maintain its influence for decades.
• Sam Giancana: A prominent figure in the Outfit during the 1950s and 1960s, Giancana was involved in various high-profile criminal activities.

In Popular Culture

The Chicago Outfit has been depicted in numerous films, television shows, and books, often serving as the archetype for organized crime in America. Notable portrayals include the film "The Untouchables" and the television series "Boardwalk Empire."

See Also

• American Mafia
• Prohibition in the United States
• Organized crime in Chicago

External Links

• FBI History: Al Capone
• Chicago Tribune: History of the Chicago Outfit